The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (ESB MACC) is honored to announce their open nominations for their annual Awards of Excellence. These awards, which were established by the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board in 2009, recognize those individuals in Austin that have demonstrated significant leadership and have made meaningful contributions in the Latino/a/e/x cultural arts. For a full list of Awards of Excellence winners from 2009–2024, please visit AustinTexas.gov/MACCAWARDS.

Submit nominations by completing our online nomination form between January 27 and March 23, 2025. Nominations may be submitted by residents of Austin and the Greater Austin Metropolitan area.

Individuals or groups from any artistic discipline whose work has made a significant impact to the Latino/a/e/x cultural arts of Austin or the Greater Austin Metropolitan Area may be nominated. No self-nominations will be accepted. City of Austin employees and officials may not submit nominations nor be nominated.

Nomination Categories
As human beings with many talents, the work of those in our community may span more than one category. In those cases, the award review committee will determine final placement of the nominee in the award category that best reflects an individual's work, contributions, and impact. 

Emerging Artist
Those who have demonstrated artistic excellence as a beginner to mid-career artist of any age (but may also include youth).  

The Arts
Those currently working as a professional artist including: visual arts, dance, music, theater, radio, TV, film, performing arts, and history. Know a great arts administrator? Consider the Service Award category instead.

Service
Those who have demonstrated outstanding service as a volunteer, employee, or professional in arts administration, community-based organizations, and more in the cultural arts.

Arts Educator
Those who have demonstrated unparalleled commitment in education in our community in the cultural arts.

Lifetime Achievement
Those who have demonstrated a lifetime of passion and dedication to the cultural arts. Their career/ contributions often span 30+ years.

Posthumous Award
Those who in their lifetime made a significant contribution to the cultural arts.

To submit a nomination, please visit AustinTexas.gov/MACCAWARDS.